20 Crafts To Make and Sell: Guide for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Key takeaways 

• A compilation of arts and crafts to make and sell so that you can monetize your creativity.
• Consumers love personalized, one-of-a-kind products and eco-friendly options. Offering customized designs, upcycled materials, or sustainable production methods can enhance market appeal.
• A successful arts and crafts business requires strong branding, compelling storytelling, and digital marketing strategies, including SEO, social media engagement, and email marketing. 

Have you ever looked at your handmade creations and wondered, “Could I actually sell these?” If so, you’re not alone.   

The market for unique, handmade items is booming, with the global handicraft market valuing at $1,107.67 billion in 2024. Turning your creative passion into a profitable business is more achievable than ever.   

Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, the opportunity to transform your hobby into a lucrative side hustle or full-time career is within reach. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to launching your craft business, including easy DIY craft ideas, tips for selling online, and strategies for marketing your creations.  

Benefits of arts and crafts as a business  

One of the biggest advantages of starting a craft business is its flexibility. You can work from home, set your own hours, and pursue your creative passions. Plus, with the rise of online marketplaces and eCommerce platforms, there are no barriers to sell crafts online.  

Here are key advantages of a craft business: 

• Flexibility. Crafting allows you to work on your own terms, fitting your business around your lifestyle. You can still have a day job even while pursuing your craft to make and sell.
• Low startup costs. Many crafts require minimal initial investment, making them accessible business ventures. If you focus on the essentials, you can start your craft business with a budget range of $500–$1000.
• Potential for profit. You can generate a significant income from your crafts with the right products and marketing. The market size of online hobby and craft supplies sales in the United States was $22.2 billion in 2024.
• Growing market. The demand for handmade, personalized, and eco-friendly crafts is continuously increasing. Consumers are seeking unique items that reflect their individuality and support small businesses.  

20 easy and profitable crafts to make and sell  

If you’re looking for creative ways to make money, these handmade craft ideas are in high demand right now. Whether you enjoy working with resin, fabric, candles, or paint, there’s a craft business opportunity for you.

1. Handmade soy candles 

Soy candles are a popular choice for their eco-friendly properties and soothing scents. They’re relatively easy to make and can be customized with different fragrances, packaging, and containers. For high-quality results, use natural soy wax, essential oils, and cotton wicks. Experiment with different scent combinations and container designs to stand out in the market.   

Look at stores like Brooklyn Candle Studio. They started as a simple side hustle and grew into a successful business selling high-quality vegan soy candles with unique scents and branding. Their online presence and product photography are excellent examples to follow.  

2. Personalized resin keychains 

Resin art offers endless customization possibilities if you decide to make it into a small business. To create unique and personalized gifts, you can embed glitter, dried flowers, photos, and other small objects in resin.   

 Many Etsy shops or other online stores sell resin supplies to start your project. To get started, invest in high-quality resin and molds, then experiment with different colors and inclusions. Since personalized gifts are in high demand, consider offering customized keychains or handmade jewelry with names or initials.   

3. Customized or hand-painted mugs  

Hand-painted mugs are popular and practical crafts to sell since they are charming and practical gift items. Painted mugs are very popular, not only for kitchen use but also as trending crafts for home decor and trendy souvenir items.  

To make these mugs, use food-safe ceramic paints and sealers. Offer custom designs or seasonal themes and consider selling them at local coffee shops or online marketplaces.  

4. Macramé plant hangers 

Macramé is the art of knotting that became popular in the 1970s and is making a revival. It is very popular within minimalist and bohemian-inspired interiors. Selling macramé plant hangers is a trendy and eco-friendly way to display plants. They’re relatively easy to make with basic macramé knots. With high-quality cotton cord, make square knots or spiral sinnets. To be more inclusive, offer different sizes, designs, and colors.   

Emily Katz, founder of Modern Macramé, found success in making macramé. She even launched a YouTube channel with over 12,000 subscribers to show enthusiasts how to make macramé art. While macramé has many applications, plant hangers are an easy entry point to sell handmade arts and crafts. 

5. Polymer clay/beaded jewelry  

This craft offers a fantastic opportunity to create unique, eye-catching jewelry pieces that cater to diverse tastes: 

• Polymer clay jewelry allows for whimsical, colorful, and sculpted designs. You can create earrings, pendants, and charms with intricate patterns or modern minimalist styles.
• Beaded jewelry offers a more elegant and refined look, making it ideal for bracelets, necklaces, and custom pieces.   

You can easily find low-cost materials in your local market or online. The wide variety of styles makes this an ideal choice for those seeking crafts to make and sell. These personalized accessories are perfect for online marketplaces and craft shows.  

6. Custom pet portraits (digital/painted)

Capture the charm of beloved pets with custom portraits. Whether digital or painted, these portraits offer a heartfelt and unique gift option. The emotional connection people have with their pets ensures a steady demand for this service. 

• Digital portraits are quick to create and can be easily delivered via email, making them cost-effective.
• Hand-painted portraits offer a traditional, artistic touch and can command a higher price. 

Many artists, like those found on Etsy under the search ‘custom pet portrait’, make a great living from creating pet portraits. NataliArtist is one of these artists and entrepreneurs who is making bucks by creating artistic memorials of beloved fur companions. She specializes in a certain style and has a very strong social media presence, making her popular in her field of expertise.  

7. Hand-sewn fabric items   

Create and sell eco-friendly and stylish fabric items like tote bags, scrunchies, and reusable produce bags. Tote bags and scrunchies are everyday essentials that can be elevated with unique fabrics and designs.   

The versatility of fabric allows for endless customization, catering to various styles and preferences of customers. This DIY idea does not need a high investment. You can utilize scrap fabrics, which makes this an eco-friendly and budget-friendly option for crafts to make and sell. These items are perfect for farmers’ markets, online shops, and local boutiques.  

8. Soap and bath bombs

Natural, handmade soaps and bath bombs are always in demand, with many consumers preferring them over commercial alternatives. Soap and bath bombs offer a sensory experience that mass-produced items can’t match. The possibilities are endless if you know how to customize scents, colors, and ingredients properly. The growing demand for natural and organic bath products makes this a lucrative market for craftspeople to sell in. 

Companies like Lush Cosmetics have built strong brands around handmade bath products. On a smaller scale, many Etsy sellers have had great success with their handmade soaps by focusing on natural ingredients and attractive packaging.  

9. Hand-lettered signs and calligraphy  

Add a touch of elegance through hand-lettered signs and calligraphy. This craft offers a unique way to create custom decor, invitations, and gifts. Personalizing each piece with names, quotes, or special messages makes them highly desirable.   

Crafts focusing on hand-lettered signs and calligraphy are skill-based artworks, so you need to be an experienced artisan to make money from your skills.  While digital fonts and AI tools can mimic calligraphy, handmade lettering remains valuable because of its craftsmanship and personal touch.   

10. Custom stickers and decals  

Design and create custom stickers and decals for personal or business use. These versatile items can be used to personalize laptops, water bottles, and more. Digital design tools and sticker printing machines make this craft accessible to anyone. If you aren’t gifted with a hand like Van Gogh or Michaelangelo, you can use modern AI tools to create art for you.  

Use high-quality vinyl and printing equipment. Offer a variety of sizes and designs and then market to businesses and individuals.  

Many people sell stickers on Etsy and Redbubble. Focusing on niche markets and unique designs allows many people to make a profit.  

11. Crocheted and knitted items (beanies/scarves)  

This classic craft is a perennial favorite, especially during colder months. Beanies, scarves, and cozy blankets offer a personal touch that mass-produced items can’t replicate. Think of grandma’s Christmas sweaters.   

The versatility of yarn allows for endless customization in colors, patterns, and sizes, making it an easy craft thing to make and sell. Plus, the low startup cost and readily available materials make it a fantastic entry point for aspiring crafters looking for things to make and sell online or at local craft fairs. The comfort and warmth of these items will always be in demand, making this a great option for crafts to make and sell.  

12. Upcycled materials and repurposed items  

Upcycling and repurposing old items into unique creations gives them new life. Think of crafting rustic, one-of-a-kind furniture from reclaimed wooden pallets. Often destined for landfills, these pallets can be disassembled, sanded, and reassembled into sturdy coffee tables, outdoor benches, or even unique bed frames.   

This process breathes new life into old materials and creates sustainable and stylish pieces that resonate with eco-conscious consumers, making it a perfect example of profitable and creative upcycling. Eco-friendly craft appeals to environmentally conscious consumers, offering a unique selling point.  

13. Handmade leather goods 

Handmade leather goods represent a premium niche for those who appreciate both durability and style. Crafting durable and stylish leather goods like wallets, keychains, and phone cases. Wallets and keychains made from high-quality leather offer a touch of sophistication and durability. You’ll notice that TikTok and other streaming platforms constantly show demand for high-quality, handcrafted accessories. Leather goods are perceived as premium pricing and topping them with handmade accessories is a recipe for a profitable venture.  

Companies like Saddleback Leather show the demand for high-quality leather goods. Before Saddleback became what it is now, founder Dave Munson started the business with a simple, durable leather bag made for personal use. People appreciated the durability, quality of material, and design of Munson’s bag, so they wanted to know where he got it. From there, the founder saw an opportunity to sell his leather bags.   

If a leather bag is too complex for you, start small by making keychains and wallets.  

14. Personalized woodworking projects   

Add a rustic and personal touch with custom woodworking projects! Coasters and signs made from wood offer a warm and inviting aesthetic. Many people are now looking for affordable personalized home decor, and personalized woodwork easily does the trick. You can make names, quotes, or custom designs. For this to work, you can opt to engrave designs by hand or use a laser engraving machine.   

15. DIY greeting cards and stationery  

Add a personal touch to correspondence with handmade greeting cards and stationery. Handmade greeting cards offer a heartfelt and unique way to express sentiments. This craft offers a low startup cost and high potential for creativity, making it an easy craft thing to make and sell.  

You can also offer DIY or craft kits so your customers can make greeting cards and stationery.  

16. Handmade children’s toys and decor  

Create safe and engaging toys and decor for children. Toys and decor for children are safe bets for crafts to make and sell since many parents love to buy beautiful but safe items for their kids. These are also perfect as personalized gifts to a sibling, niece, nephew, godchild, or even to a customer who is a child at heart.  Personalization adds even more appeal, whether it’s a child’s name engraved on a toy or a custom color scheme to match a nursery. 

Safety is a key selling point for handmade children’s products. To make a profitable product, utilize natural materials like organic cotton, untreated wood, and non-toxic paints. These items offer personalization and craftsmanship that mass-produced toys simply can’t match. Appeal to parents looking for gifts that foster creativity and become treasured keepsakes, setting your creations apart in a crowded market.  

17. Hand-poured resin decorations 

Create unique and decorative resin coasters and trays with various designs and colors. Resin allows for the creation of vibrant colors, intricate designs, and even the encapsulation of natural elements.   

Rachels Resinns is an example of a hobby-turned-business. Rachel, owner, and founder, encapsulates vibrant flowers in resin to preserve the precious memories of their owners. Her products serve as memoirs. Whether you focus on aesthetic designs or sentimental keepsakes, resin crafting is a versatile niche with strong market potential. 

18. Hand-painted or dyed textiles  

Add a splash of color and artistry with hand-painted or dyed textiles. Scarves and bandanas are accessories that complete a fashion statement, expressing personal style. You can transform everyday accessories into wearable art by painting or dying textiles.   

To take it a step further, you can cater to the growing demand for sustainable fashion by using eco-friendly dyes and upcycled fabrics. You can also offer limited designs or personalized commissions, which allows customers to own one-of-a-kind pieces. This craft taps into the desire for individuality and artistic expression, making it a valuable addition to your entrepreneurial arsenal.  

19. Magnets and pins  

Magnets and pins offer affordable, collectible expressions of personality. Design magnets and pins that cater to niche interests, fandoms, or local communities. Create sets with cohesive themes or offer custom designs for special occasions. Utilize high-quality materials and vibrant printing to ensure your creations stand out. These small, easily shipped items are perfect for online sales and make excellent add-ons at craft fairs. Offering themed sets or personalized options can further enhance their appeal. 

20. Digital planners and printables  

Another business idea to consider is beautifully designed digital planners, calendars, checklists, and educational printables that cater to specific needs and interests. You can easily make these crafts using AI tools that create digital art.  

Target busy professionals, students, or hobbyists seeking efficient and stylish organizational tools, and leverage the power of digital distribution to reach a global audience with minimal overhead. To gain a solid customer base, offer customizable templates or themed designs to cater to diverse preferences.  Selling through platforms like Etsy, Gumroad, or a personal website provides passive income potential, as once a design is created, it can be sold repeatedly without additional costs. 

Sell your crafts online  

Once you’ve chosen your craft and perfected your skills, it’s time to start selling! Selling online opens opportunities, allowing you to reach a global audience and build a thriving business. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:  

1. Setting up your online store  

Choose a platform. It is crucial to select the right platform. Consider your budget, technical skills, and the features you need.   

Platforms like Network Solutions offer user-friendly website builders and e-commerce tools that make setting up an online store a breeze. You can create a professional-looking storefront in minutes with customizable templates and drag-and-drop functionality.  

Domain name and hosting. A professional domain name and reliable hosting are essential for building credibility. Network Solutions also offers domain registration and hosting services, ensuring your website is secure and easy to find.  

Product photography. First impressions are important in business; that is why high-quality product photos are crucial for attracting customers. To secure professional-looking products in your online store, you need to keep in mind these important details:  

• Use well-lit, clear photos that showcase your crafts from different angles.
• Consider hiring a professional photographer or investing in good lighting equipment.  

Product descriptions. Product descriptions are not simply to describe your products. Write detailed and engaging product descriptions highlighting your crafts’ unique features and benefits. Use relevant keywords to improve search engine visibility.  

2. Pricing your crafts  

Determining the right price for handmade creations is key to a successful craft business. Here’s a breakdown of how to do it effectively:   

• Cost of goods sold (COGS). Calculate your COGS, which includes materials, packaging, and labor.
• Cost-plus. Add a markup to your COGS to ensure profit.
• Research competitors. See how other crafters are pricing similar items.
• Consider your value. Don’t undervalue your time and skills.
• Offer competitive prices. Set prices that are fair and competitive while ensuring profitability.  

3. Marketing your crafts  

Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Optimize your website and product listings for relevant keywords. Keep in mind that websites thrive through online impressions, clicks, and visitors. If your website does not rank in search engines, how will you reach your target audience? That is why you need to incorporate SEO strategies in your website; product description is one way to do that.  

• Use keywords like “handmade [your product]” and “[your product] for sale” in product descriptions and titles.  

Social media marketing. Use social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, and Facebook to showcase your crafts and engage with potential customers.   

• Post high-quality photos and videos of your products.
• Run targeted ads to reach a wider audience.
• Engage with your followers by responding to comments and messages.  

Email marketing. Build an email list and send newsletters to promote new products and special offers.  

Paid advertising. Consider running paid ads on social media or search engines to drive traffic to your online store.  

4. Shipping and customer service  

Building trust with your customers means reliable shipping and top-notch customer support. Here’s how to achieve that: 

• Efficient shipping. Offer reliable and affordable shipping options.
• Packaging. Package your crafts carefully to prevent damage during shipping.
• Customer service. Provide excellent customer service by responding to inquiries and resolving issues promptly.  

How Network Solutions can help your craft business thrive  

Starting and growing a craft business requires the right tools and resources. Network Solutions offers a comprehensive suite of products and services to help you succeed in selling your crafts. 

1. eCommerce website builder  

Network Solutions’ eCommerce website builder empowers you to easily create a professional online store.  

• Easy-to-use website builder. No coding required! The drag-and-drop interface allows you to design your online store quickly and efficiently.
• Professional templates. Choose from 150+ mobile-responsive templates to create a stunning and user-friendly storefront.
• Built-in e-commerce tools. Sell products easily using secure payment processing, real-time inventory management, and customizable product listings.
• Multiple payment options. Accept major credit cards and PayPal, ensuring a smooth and secure customer checkout experience.
• SEO & marketing features. Boost your store’s visibility with SEO tools, social media integration, and email marketing capabilities.  

2. eCommerce tools  

Our eCommerce Website Design service provides a comprehensive solution to establish a secure and efficient online store. Key features include:  

• Secure payment processing. Accept all major payment methods, including credit cards and PayPal, ensuring a seamless checkout experience for customers.
• Real-time inventory management. Easily track and manage product stock levels to prevent overselling and maintain customer satisfaction.
• Professional website support. Access to in-house experts for ongoing updates and enhancements to your website, ensuring it remains current and functional.
• Website analytics. Monitor visitor behavior, views, and overall website performance with integrated analytics tools, enabling data-driven decisions.   

3. Marketing services  

We offer a comprehensive marketing tool suite to enhance your online presence and drive business growth. Key services include:   

• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) services. Improve your website’s visibility on search engines like Google and Bing. Our experts will optimize your site to boost search engine rankings, drive more traffic, and get your business listed in popular directories.
• Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising. Increase your website’s visibility through targeted advertising campaigns. Partner with our Google Ads Certified Experts to create customized PPC campaigns that drive qualified leads to your site.
• Digital marketing services. Access a range of services, including award-winning web design, to enhance your online presence. Our team stays up to date with the latest marketing trends and technologies to provide tailored solutions that align with your business goals.  

4. Domain registration and hosting  

Domain registration and web hosting? No problem at all. We have domain registration and web hosting services designed to establish and maintain a robust online presence for businesses and individuals.  

Domain registration services  

• Extensive domain options. As one of the world’s first domain registrars, Network Solutions provides access to over 500 domain extensions, allowing you to select a domain that best represents your brand or personal identity.
• Private domain registration. Safeguard your personal information with private domain registration, which keeps your contact details confidential in the public WHOIS database, protecting you from spam and potential security threats.   

Web hosting services 

• Reliable performance. Network Solutions offers reliable website performance, ensuring your website remains accessible to visitors at all times.
• Flexible hosting plans. Choose from various hosting packages tailored to different needs, including shared hosting, WordPress hosting, and advanced hosting options. Each plan has ample disk space, bandwidth, and email accounts to support your website’s growth.
• Enhanced security features. Your website and its visitors will be protected from potential threats with daily malware scans, automatic backups, and SSL certificates.  

Turn your crafts into a profitable business  

If you’ve been thinking about selling your crafts, there’s never been a better time to start. With the right tools and strategies, you can turn your creativity into a profitable business. Start your online craft business today with Network Solutions’ website builder, e-commerce tools, and other resources.  

Frequently asked questions